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Adding More Whole Grains to Your Diet

Posted November 6, 2015

Did you know that nutritionists recommend eating 3-5 servings of whole grains per day? That’s because they are full of great nutrients and vitamins, support a healthy heart, and there are tons of tasty recipes using these ingredients. Let’s get the facts on this trendy diet and learn new ways to incorporate whole grain foods into our everyday routine!

First, in order to add whole grains to our diet, it’s important to know what a whole grain is. A whole grain product contains seeds with all three edible parts- bran, endosperm, and germ- still intact. With the entire grain kernel intact, whole grains contain more fiber, protein and other key nutrients than their refined (“white”) counterparts.

When trying to incorporate whole grains, be sure to get creative. If you are already eating a product made with grains, it can be as simple as swapping one product out for another that includes whole grain ingredients. For example, try switching to a whole grain bread or rice. Other times, sprinkle in some bran or granola to your yogurt or fresh fruit to amp up the whole grain factor.

Quinoa is a trendy, new way of adding in whole grain, and it’s becoming more readily available at dining establishments all around. Quinoa works well as a salad base, side dish, or in soups and stews. It adds a tasty, earthy, nutty flavor to your food.

Whole grains are so versatile. You can use them as add-ins, side dishes, or as a base for the main course. You can even munch on a tasty whole grain snack from a vending machine near you. Working them into your daily routine can be a great way to experiment with your food, while making your diet better-for-you!